Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Dire Dawa

As a bustling hub in eastern Ethiopia, Dire Dawa offers a unique cultural experience for expats and digital nomads. While it may not have the extensive selection of international or bilingual schools found in larger global cities, there are still educational options for expat families. Among the most popular are the Dire Dawa International School and the Lycee Guebre-Mariam, which cater to the diverse educational needs of international students. Here are some of the schools within a reasonable distance from Dire Dawa that provide quality education in English or bilingual formats.

Dire Dawa International School

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 8
Location(s): Dire Dawa

Dire Dawa International School is a well-known institution in the city that offers a curriculum designed to meet the needs of expatriate children. With a focus on fostering a multicultural environment, the school provides a blend of local and international educational practices. Facilities are modest but adequate, and the school emphasizes a supportive community for its diverse student body.

Lycee Guebre-Mariam

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa (approximately 40 minutes by air from Dire Dawa)

Although not within driving distance, Lycee Guebre-Mariam is an option for families who may consider boarding or frequent travel. This French international school offers a bilingual French-English education and follows the French national curriculum. It is well-regarded for its rigorous academic standards and comprehensive extracurricular programs, making it a popular choice for expat families in Ethiopia.

British International School Addis Ababa

Grades: Early Years through Year 13
Location(s): Addis Ababa (approximately 40 minutes by air from Dire Dawa)

Another option accessible by a short flight is the British International School Addis Ababa, which offers the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels. The school boasts modern facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields. It also has a strong emphasis on holistic education, encouraging students to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities.

One Planet International School

Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa (approximately 40 minutes by air from Dire Dawa)

One Planet International School is known for its commitment to academic excellence and international-mindedness. Offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, it provides a globally recognized education. The school's state-of-the-art facilities and wide range of extracurricular activities make it an attractive choice for expat families seeking a comprehensive educational experience.

International Community School of Addis Ababa

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa (approximately 40 minutes by air from Dire Dawa)

The International Community School of Addis Ababa is a well-established institution offering the IB curriculum. With a diverse student body representing over 60 nationalities, it provides a truly international environment. The school is known for its strong support services, including college counseling and learning support, ensuring that all students can thrive.

Sandford International School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa (approximately 40 minutes by air from Dire Dawa)

Sandford International School, with its roots dating back to 1947, offers the IB curriculum along with the Ethiopian National Curriculum for students who wish to pursue it. The school's historic campus is equipped with libraries, science labs, and sports facilities. Sandford prides itself on its cultural diversity and strong sense of community.

Please note that while some schools are located in Addis Ababa, which is a short flight from Dire Dawa, they are included due to the limited options within Dire Dawa itself and the high quality of education they offer. Families may consider these schools if they are open to the logistics involved in accessing education outside of Dire Dawa.